My wife, Hollie, and I were LaDonna’s neighbors for many years, on Kingman Boulevard in Des Moines. As neighbors, we shared a common driveway. After ANY snowfall, I was often a little embarrassed that our neighbor, almost 20 years older than us, was out there shoveling our driveway before we were. But we were proud to always have the clearest driveway, and sidewalks, for blocks around. She was a wonderful neighbor.
Dan Hart

Ladonna held many positions in my life..my favorite was friend. I loved her truly and loved to learn about gardening things from her and listen to her wickedly funny stories about her battles with neighborhood squirrels. We shared many secrets too. My sympathies go out to her daughters, grandchildren and family.

A thank you to LaDonna, for taking me in her heart. A woman with a will of iron, whiplash sense of humor, a feistiness that bore her through and a fierceness of love! ( A mamma bear at times). She fought through life and accomplished so much, for herself, her children and those around her. My condolences and strength to her family. Tootie was one who truly loved and lived and made some of the best fried chicken in the country! I feel honored to have known her and to have called her at times Mom #2. Kay K.

So sorry to hear this. Our deepest Sympathy. From karen Hawley Pipes an dan. I remember her Ladonna more by her nickname Tootie

Extending my heartfelt sympathy to LaDonna's three girls. I had babysat for all of you many times. I so enjoyed your mom and her fun-loving personality! LaDonna was a 'social butterfly' and truly enjoyed going out with friends. I loved your mom's smile and her laugh! Prayers of strength and peace for all of you during this difficult time. Hugs~ Marcia (Riedel) Burt

Graduated with LaDonna..., what a fun loving friend to have.... RIP Tooty.,,, your old friend Hoot

My thoughts and prayers are with you your Mom was a special lady. RITA MURRAY

Carla, Barb, and Lori,
You lost a mom that loved you so much, I can't imagine how you are feeling today. CS Lewis said the only thing that ever helped me handle the pain of losing someone so dear. I am incapable of doing the same, so I'll share what I learned from him: "Why love, if losing hurts so much? I have no answers anymore: only the life I have lived. Twice in that life I've been given the choice: as a boy and as a man. The boy chose safety, the man chooses suffering. The pain now is part of the happiness then. That's the deal." I can only pray that you feel God's presence to comfort you and that the memories of the love/laughter you shared with your mom rise loudly in your lives.

God bless you,

Marsha